Bullock Scholars Program
Spring 2025
Overview
The Bob Bullock Scholars Program was established in 2000 through an agreement involving the family of Bob Bullock, members of the Texas Senate, and Baylor University. Funding was provided to allow students from Baylor University to intern on a full-time basis during sessions of the Texas Legislature. The first group of five Bullock Scholars participated in the 2001 legislative session, followed by nine in 2003, ten in 2005, eleven in 2007, ten in 2009, ten in 2011, ten in 2013, ten in 2015, ten in 2017, eleven in 2019, ten in 2021, and ten in 2023.
The Bob Bullock Scholars Program was named to honor the memory and numerous contributions to society by Mr. Bob Bullock. He graduated from Texas Tech University and Baylor Law School and began his illustrious career in public service in 1956 with his election to the Texas House of Representatives. Following his reelection in 1958 and a return to private law practice, Bullock served as an Assistant Attorney General, as general counsel for Governor Preston Smith, and as Secretary of State of Texas.
In 1975, Bullock was elected Comptroller of Public Accounts and served until 1990 during which he brought Texas into national prominence as a leader in the areas of fiscal responsibility, financial research capabilities, and efficiency in tax collections. His contributions in the areas of public administration have served as a model for administrators seeking to promote efficiency and fiscal responsibility.
Bullock was sworn in as Lieutenant Governor and President of the Texas Senate in 1991, a post to which he was reelected in 1995. In office, he set high standards for Texas senators by emphasizing hard work, nonpartisan legislation, and commitment to the people of Texas. Bullock's zeal for public policy and administration and his contributions to the betterment of the lives of people have ensured his permanent place in the memory of Texans and his role as an inspiration for generations of future Texans.
Baylor University believes that the Bob Bullock Scholars Program will elevate the study of politics among Baylor students and serve as a model for those individuals who seek to serve others through a career in public life. Dr. James Curry served as the director of the program from its inception through 2021. Dr. Patrick Flavin now serves as the director and arranges internship placements for Baylor students in legislative offices. Bullock Scholars live in Austin and intern on a full-time basis for a member of the Texas Senate or House of Representatives for the entire legislative session.
Students must be enrolled (and pay tuition) as full-time students at Baylor University during the Spring 2025 semester to participate in the Bullock Scholars internship program. Students will complete three independent study courses (PSC 3698 Texas Legislative Internship, PSC 4390 Texas Government & Politics, PSC 4V94 Texas Public Policy) for a total of 12 credit hours.
Bullock Scholars will receive a monthly stipend to help cover living expenses in Austin during the legislative session. The projected stipend is $7,000 (5 monthly payments of $1,400). Students’ existing Baylor scholarships and financial aid typically still apply to the semester in Austin.
The 89th legislative session will be January 14 - June 2, 2025, with several days of orientation prior to that. Students are expected to live in Austin during that time period and are responsible for housing, transportation, and other expenses. Students may not return to the Waco campus to take classes during the semester.
Requirements to participate in the Bullock Scholars Program:
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The student must complete the online application and have one letter of recommendation from an academic or professional reference emailed directly to Dr. Flavin. The application deadline for the spring 2025 legislative session is APRIL 15, 2024.
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The internship must cover the entire legislative session. Students may not return to the Waco campus to take classes during the internship and must be enrolled at Baylor University as a full-time student during the spring 2025 semester.
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The student intern must report to his/her assigned post punctually and carry out his/her responsibilities professionally. The intern must perform other assigned projects germane to his/her experiential training including writing reports, conducting research, assisting with program development and logistical planning, and attending lectures and symposiums.
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During the internship, the intern must be available for at least two on-site visits from the program director.
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The intern must dress according to assigned office policy for the duration of the internship.
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The intern’s conduct must be exemplary. Unprofessional behavior shall be reason for dismissal.
Please contact Dr. Patrick Flavin with any questions:
Patrick Flavin, Bob Bullock Professor of Political Science
Baylor University, Department of Political Science
One Bear Place #97276
Waco, TX 76798
254-710-7418